Aquatic wildlife discovery pool

ABSTRACT

An aquatic wildlife discovery pool provides a swimming pool where swimmers can explore and discover various types of live aquatic wildlife. The aquatic wildlife discovery pool may comprise one or more aquariums at its walls to give swimmers the impression that they are swimming with the aquatic wildlife. In addition, one or more aquariums may be at the floor of the pool to allow swimmers to dive downward to discover aquatic wildlife at the bottom of the aquatic wildlife discovery pool.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.61/587,795, titled Aquarium and Aquatic Attractions and Games ProvidingEducation and Amusement, filed Jan. 18, 2012.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to aquariums and aquatic attractions and inparticular to an aquatic wildlife discovery pool where swimmers may diveand swim to discover and interact with various forms of aquaticwildlife.

2. Related Art

There has always been substantial interest in aquatic wildlife, such asfish, crustaceans, coral and the like. However, access to such wildlifebeyond television, Internet, print, and other published sources islimited. In addition, though traditional aquariums allow visitors toview live aquatic wildlife the experience is similar to that of viewingrecorded wildlife on videos or in print publications.

As will be described further herein, the present invention addressessuch limitations by providing an aquatic wildlife discovery pool, whichallows access and interaction with aquatic wildlife in an interactiveand engaging environment.

From the discussion that follows, it will become apparent that thepresent invention addresses the deficiencies associated with the priorart while providing numerous additional advantages and benefits notcontemplated or possible with prior art constructions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An aquatic wildlife discovery pool is disclosed herein. The aquaticwildlife discovery pool provides an engaging experience for discoveringand interacting with aquatic wildlife of various types. The aquaticwildlife discovery pool gives swimmers the impression they are swimmingwith aquatic wildlife at its walls. In addition, swimmers get a sense ofdiscovery by diving downward to view aquariums positioned at the floorof the aquatic wildlife discovery pool. This engaging experience helpsswimmers learn about and, importantly, remember the aquatic wildlifethey encounter within the aquatic wildlife discovery pool.

The aquatic wildlife discovery pool may have various configurations. Forinstance, in one exemplary embodiment, an aquatic wildlife discoverypool may comprise a plurality of transparent walls, and a floor havingone or more open portions. The plurality of transparent walls and floorare typically configured to hold pool water for one or more swimmers toswim therein. A plurality of aquariums containing water and one or moretypes of aquatic wildlife are also part of the aquatic wildlifediscovery pool, and are visible through the plurality of transparentwalls and the open portions.

The plurality of transparent walls may be made from the plurality ofaquariums. At least one of the plurality of aquariums may be at each ofthe open portions. A magnifying lens or window may be located at theopen portions.

It is noted that a first type of aquatic wildlife may be at the floorwhile a second distinct type of aquatic wildlife is at the walls of theaquatic wildlife discovery pool, with each type of aquatic wildlifecontained within one of the plurality of aquariums.

The aquatic wildlife discovery pool may have a shallow end and a deepend. A first type of aquatic wildlife may be at the shallow end and asecond distinct type of aquatic wildlife may be at the deep end of theaquatic wildlife discovery pool. Each type of aquatic wildlife may becontained within one of the plurality of aquariums.

In another exemplary embodiment, a pool-based aquatic attraction isdisclosed. Such attraction may comprise a swimming pool having at leastone transparent wall formed by at least one first aquarium, and a floor.Pool water is contained within the swimming pool while aquarium water iscontained within the first aquarium.

One or more second aquariums, also containing aquarium water, are at thefloor of the swimming pool. One or more openings are in the floor of theswimming pool and configured to permit viewing of the second aquariumsthough the floor. The pool water is configured to allow swimmers to swimtherein and the aquarium water has aquatic wildlife therein. Forinstance, the aquarium water may be salt water while the pool water isnot.

A first water filtration and circulation mechanism may be attached tothe first and second aquariums, while a second water filtration andcirculation mechanism is attached to the swimming pool. One or moremagnifying lenses may be at the openings. Alternatively or in addition,one or more windows at the openings.

The first aquarium may contain a first type of aquatic wildlife, whilethe second aquariums contain a second distinct type of aquatic wildlife.To illustrate, the first type of aquatic wildlife may swim while thesecond type of aquatic wildlife is not capable of swimming.

Various methods for discovering aquatic wildlife are disclosed herein aswell. For example, a method for discovering aquatic wildlife maycomprise providing a swimming pool comprising at least one transparentwall, providing a floor to the swimming pool having one or more openingstherein, and installing one or more second aquariums at the openings ofthe floor. A first aquarium is at the transparent wall. The secondaquariums are visible at the openings;

Aquatic wildlife is added to the first aquarium and the secondaquariums. The swimming pool is filled with pool water to allow swimmingtherein such that one or more swimmers may dive to the floor of theswimming pool to view the aquatic wildlife within the second aquariums.The aquatic wildlife in one or more second aquariums is obscured by thepool water from the deck of the swimming pool.

It is noted that a first type of aquatic wildlife may be at the firstaquarium while a second distinct type of aquatic wildlife is at thesecond aquariums. One or more magnifying lenses may be installed at theopenings. A first filtration system may be connected to the swimmingpool while a second filtration system is connected to the first andsecond aquariums.

A shallow end and a deep end may be formed in the swimming pool. In suchcases, a first type of aquatic wildlife may be added to the secondaquariums at the shallow end, while a second type of aquatic wildlife isadded to the second aquariums at the deep end.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention will beor will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination ofthe following figures and detailed description. It is intended that allsuch additional systems, methods, features and advantages be includedwithin this description, be within the scope of the invention, and beprotected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasisinstead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.In the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding partsthroughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary aquatic wildlifediscovery pool;

FIG. 2 is a top view of an exemplary aquatic wildlife discovery pool;

FIG. 3 is a front view of an exemplary aquarium maze;

FIG. 4 is a side view of an exemplary aquarium maze;

FIG. 5 is a top view of an exemplary aquarium maze;

FIG. 6 is a side view of an exemplary aquarium tunnel;

FIG. 7 is a front view of an exemplary aquarium tunnel;

FIG. 8 is a side view of an exemplary aquatic ride attraction;

FIG. 9 is a side view of an exemplary aquatic ride attraction inoperation;

FIG. 10 is a side view of an exemplary aquatic ride attraction inoperation;

FIG. 11 is a side view of an exemplary aquatic ride attraction inoperation;

FIG. 12 is a front view of an exemplary aquatic climbing attraction;

FIG. 13 is a front view of an exemplary aquatic climbing attraction;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary aquatic climbingattraction;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary aquatic climbingattraction;

FIG. 16 is a front view of an exemplary bubbling attraction;

FIG. 17 is a front view of an exemplary bubbling attraction;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary aquarium pool;

FIG. 19 is a top view of an exemplary aquarium pool;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 21 is a side view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 22 is a side view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 23 is a side view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 24 is a top view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 25 is a top view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 26 is a side view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 27 is a top view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 28 is a side view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 29 is a top view of an exemplary aquatic attraction;

FIG. 30 illustrates an exemplary screen of an aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 31 illustrates an exemplary screen of an aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 32 illustrates an exemplary screen of an aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 33 illustrates an exemplary screen of an aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 34 illustrates an exemplary screen of an aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 35 illustrates an exemplary screen of an aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 36 illustrates an exemplary screen of an aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 37 is a front perspective view of an exemplary aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 38 is a front perspective view of an exemplary aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 39 is a front perspective view of an exemplary aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 40 is a front perspective view of an exemplary aquatic-themed game;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of an exemplary pool with an aquariumwindow;

FIG. 42 is a front perspective view of an exemplary supported subjectfor aquatic-themed photographs;

FIG. 43 illustrates an exemplary aquatic-themed photograph;

FIG. 44 is a top view of an exemplary water stroller;

FIG. 45 is a side view of an exemplary water stroller in use;

FIG. 46 is a top view of an exemplary circulating pool;

FIG. 47 is a top view of an exemplary circulating pool;

FIG. 48 is a side view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 49 is a side view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 50 is a side view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 51 is a side view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 52 is a top view of exemplary propelled floating objects inoperation;

FIG. 53 is a side view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 54 is a top view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 55 is a side view of an exemplary propulsion system for a propelledfloating object;

FIG. 56 is a side view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 57 is a side view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 58 is a side view of an exemplary control system for a propelledfloating object;

FIG. 59 is a side view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 60 is a top view of an exemplary propelled floating object inoperation;

FIG. 61 is a side view of an exemplary pool having an underwateraquarium; and

FIG. 62 is a top view of an exemplary pool having an underwateraquarium.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth inorder to provide a more thorough description of the present invention.It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that thepresent invention may be practiced without these specific details. Inother instances, well-known features have not been described in detailso as not to obscure the invention.

FIGS. 1-2 illustrate a pool 104 that has live fish aquariums 116, 120 atthe walls 108 and/or floor 112 (an “aquatic wildlife discovery pool”)right below the water level for the purpose of motivating swimmers todevelop aquatic skills by submerging and even swimming towards the floor112 in order to see the fish in those aquariums. This inventioncomprises a swimming pool 104 of any shape that has live fish aquariums108, 116 housed in its sidewalls 108 and/or floor 112. The aquariums 120at the sidewalls 108 create an impression that swimmers are swimmingwith the fish or other aquatic wildlife therein.

FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an aquatic wildlife discoverypool 104 having live fish aquariums 120 built on its sides 108 andtransparent windows or lenses 128 on the floor through which swimmerscan see live fish aquariums 116 that are housed underneath. As can beseen, the floor 112 of the aquatic wildlife discovery pool 104 may haveone or more openings where floor aquariums 116 may be located forviewing. Embodiments with lenses 128 (as opposed to windows) may magnifyor otherwise distort the view of the aquarium housed underneath. FIG. 2illustrates a top view of the pool of FIG. 1 with the lenses on thefloor.

A variation of the embodiment of FIG. 1 comprises an aquatic wildlifediscovery pool 104 in which the entire floor 112 comprises a liveaquarium housed behind a transparent barrier such as an acrylic or glasswall. The lenses of FIGS. 1 and 2 above may be be located in the sidewalls on this variation.

It is noted that a dual barrier configuration may be used where atransparent sidewall of a pool forms a first barrier to contain poolwater and a wall of a live fish aquarium forms a second barrier tocontain the aquarium's water. For example, a variation of embodiments ofFIGS. 1 and 2 above may comprise an aquatic wildlife discovery pool 104in which all four sides 108 and floor 112 comprise solid aquariums 116,120 housed behind transparent barriers.

Another variation of embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 above comprises lenses128 on all four or more sidewalls and a solid aquarium floor asdescribed above. Another variation of embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 abovecomprises a combination of lenses 128 and solid aquariums 120 atdifferent sidewalls of the aquatic wildlife discovery pool. Anothervariation of embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 above comprises an aquaticwildlife discovery pool 104 in which only one sidewall 108 containseither lenses 128 or solid aquariums 120 or the combination of both.

Referring to the top view of FIG. 2, it can be seen that the aquaticwildlife discovery pool 104 may be surrounded by a deck 204 upon whichseating 208 or other fixtures may be placed. It is contemplated that theaquariums 116 visible through lenses 128 or windows may be separateaquariums built into the floor 112 or wall 108 of the aquatic wildlifediscovery pool 104. Alternatively, a larger aquarium 116 may be locatedin a compartment or other area 124 under the floor 112 and be visible atvarious locations via the lenses 128. It is noted that one or more floorand/or wall aquariums 116, 120 may be connected such as to allow fish orother wildlife to swim therebetween. Where the aquariums 116, 120 areseparate aquariums it is contemplated that different types of wildlifemay be placed within different aquariums. For example, a first type ofaquatic wildlife may be in the floor aquariums 116 while a second typeof aquatic wildlife is in the wall aquariums 120. To illustrate, bottomdwellers, such as crustaceans and/or coral may be in the floor aquariums116 while fish are in the wall aquariums 120. As another example a firstsidewall 108C (near a shallower end of the aquatic wildlife discoverypool 104 for example) may contain shallow water fish while a secondsidewall 108D may contain deep-water fish. The other sidewalls 108A,108B may have the same or different types of aquatic wildlife as well.

It is contemplated that the floor aquariums 116 may be individualaquariums that are removable from the floor 112 such as for cleaning andmaintenance. These aquariums may then be “dropped” back into the floor112 when in use. In addition, it is noted that the swimmers may beprovided snorkeling or scuba diving equipment for use in the aquaticwildlife discovery pool 104. In this manner, they may interact with andview aquatic wildlife for longer periods of time. In some embodiments,the aquatic wildlife discovery pool 104 or a portion thereof may be deepto facilitate diving. For example, the aquatic wildlife discovery pool104 may be 10 ft or more deep. In this manner, swimmers can get a senseof discovery when reaching a floor aquarium 116.

FIGS. 3-5 illustrate an amusing aquarium-based attraction (an “aquariummaze”) which will motivate customers to enter and enjoy and learn fromthe exhibit by having to walk around surrounded by live fish aquariumsas they try to find their way out. This invention comprises acombination of modular aquariums (i.e., individual aquariums) and acombination of barriers that will direct the flow of customers indifferent directions. The barriers as shown in FIG. 5 as acrylicdividers can also be made of glass, mirrors or a combination of all ofthe above.

FIG. 3 shows a front view of the aquarium maze where the outer walls aremade of transparent material so customers outside the aquarium maze cansee the people inside as they try to find their way out and also see theaquariums from the outside. FIG. 4 shows a side view of the aquariummaze where the outer walls are made of transparent material so customersoutside the aquarium maze can see the people inside as they try to findtheir way out and also see the aquariums from the outside.

FIG. 5 shows a top view of the aquarium maze demonstrating a rectangularshape aquarium maze and demonstrating a floor plan of modular aquariumsand dividers in combination. In addition to modular shapes of theaquarium maze it will be understood that the principle of thisembodiment can be housed in any other shape than rectangular. It willalso be understood that the floor plan of FIG. 5 can be constructed withround or other geometrical shaped modular aquariums.

FIGS. 6-7 illustrate an aquarium-based attraction (an “aquarium tunnel”)that will motivate customers to enter and enjoy and learn from theexhibit by crawling through the aquarium as they are surrounded by livefish. This invention comprises an aquarium of any shape that has atunnel made of transparent material that goes through it. It will beunderstood that the tunnel also can be of different shape than thestraight tube type shown on the embodiments of FIGS. 6-7.

FIG. 6 shows a side view of the aquarium tunnel where the outer wallsare made of transparent material so customers outside can see the peopleinside as they crawl out of it and also see the aquariums from theoutside. FIG. 7 shows a front view of the aquarium tunnel where theouter walls are also made of transparent material so customers outsidecan see the people inside as they crawl inside as well as the aquariumfrom the outside.

FIGS. 8-11 illustrate an amusing form of water-based exercise wherecustomers try to stay on the back of the objects floating on water asthe waves intensify. The floating objects for the purpose of thisillustration comprise replicas of different types of aquatic animals.Another purpose of this invention is to provide for a venue that helpspeople develop balance in a safe manner. Another purpose of thisinvention is to provide for a healthy means of competition.

This invention comprises a floating object that is tethered to the floorof the pool by means of stretchable cords or other resilient connectingstructures and a wave-producing device that can be controlled to providedifferent levels of wave intensity, much like a mechanical bull has.This invention can include a single floating object or a plural numberof floating objects for the purpose of accommodating additional peopleor competition.

FIG. 8 shows a side cross-sectional view where three people are ridingthe floating objects, each one of them at different angles dependent tothe shape of the wave in their particular location. It is noted that theshape of the floating objects can be such that side-to-side movement ofthe floating objects can be achieved by creating lateral instability inthe floating object.

FIGS. 9-11 shows side cross-sectional views where one person is ridingthe floating object where each one of the figures show a different angledependent to the shape of the wave in its particular moment. It isnotable that the shape of the floating object can be such thatside-to-side movement of the floating object can be achieved by creatinglateral instability in the floating object.

FIG. 12 illustrates an amusing form of exercising and learning aboutaquatic wildlife, where customers scale a wall of an aquarium. Anotherpurpose of this invention is to provide for a venue that helps peopledevelop strength in a safe manner. Another purpose of this invention isto provide for a healthy means of competition. FIG. 12 shows a frontview where three people are climbing the modular aquarium duringcompetition.

This invention comprises one or more stacked aquariums, which containdifferent species of fish. This invention also comprises an aquariumthat has an overhead device with a control rope for safety and a pluralnumber of objects adhered to the wall, which provides for hand and footclimbing aids. Climbers use these climbing aids or hand/foot holds orstones to help them climb upwards as well as control their descent.

A variation of this embodiment can comprises separate aquariums stackedvertically so customers can experience and see different types ofaquatic species each time they climb to one of the aquariums. An exampleof this is illustrated in FIG. 12. FIG. 13 illustrates a variation wherecustomers scale a wall of a single large aquarium. Another variation ofthis invention comprises a single vertical and narrow aquarium thataccommodates only one climber at the time. FIGS. 14-15 show a frontperspective view of a model that allows more than one climber to climb afree standing vertical aquarium. Another variation of this inventioncomprises a 2-sided (or more) vertical aquarium that is against a wallinstead of free standing.

FIGS. 16-17 illustrate an amusing and interactive aquarium-based exhibit(a “bubbler exhibit”) for aquariums, museums, etc. This inventioncomprises a vertical tubular structure with transparent outer walls thathas water inside and a device that produces air bubbles at the bottom ofthe device.

A customer activates the bubbles at the bubbler exhibit by pressing onthe push buttons adjacent to the exhibit. Air compressors build pressureand such that at various predefined time periods, customers can activatethe bubbles when the air pressure is sufficient. A float may be insidethe bubbler that neutrally or negatively buoyant such that it will risewith the bubbles every time that the bubbler exhibits are activated.

FIGS. 16-17 show a front view of bubbler exhibits and their activatingcontrols. As can be seen, various wildlife or items may be positionedwithin the float. Customers may activate the bubbles to raise the floatto a viewing position.

FIGS. 18-19 illustrate a pool that has live fish aquariums on the wallsand/or floor right below the water level for the purpose of motivatingswimmers to develop aquatic skills by submerging and even swimmingtowards the floor in order to see the fish in the aquariums.

This invention comprises a swimming pool of any shape that has live fishaquariums housed in its sidewalls and/or floor. Stated another way atransparent walled swimming pool may be built into a portion of the fishaquarium.

FIG. 18 shows a cross-sectional view of a pool that has live fishaquarium all around below the water level. The pool may be shallow toprovide safety for beginning swimmers or children. FIG. 19 shows a topview of pool of FIG. 18.

A variation of the embodiment of FIG. 18 may comprise a pool in whichthe entire floor comprises a live aquarium housed behind a transparentbarrier such as an acrylic or glass wall. Live aquarium lenses orwindows can be located in the sidewalls of this variation. Anothervariation of embodiment of FIG. 18 above comprises a pool in which allsides comprise aquariums positioned behind transparent barriers, withthe floor not being an aquarium.

Another variation of embodiments of FIGS. 18-19 above comprises acombination of lenses or windows and aquariums among the differentsidewalls of the pool. Another variation of embodiments of FIGS. 18-19above comprises a pool in which only one sidewall contains eitherlenses/windows or solid aquariums or a combination of both.

FIGS. 20-21 illustrate an amusing and educational form of exercisingwhere customers jump from one floating object to another floating objectto see who reaches a finish line or other goal first. Another purpose ofthis invention is to provide for a venue that helps people developbalance in a safe manner. Another purpose of this invention is toprovide for a healthy means of competition.

This invention comprises a plural number of floating objects that may betethered to the floor of the pool by means of stretchable cords or otherresilient connecting structures and that are separated by an distancethat will provide for a level of difficulty. This invention can be asingle row of floating objects for the purpose of a “one person at thetime” venue.

FIG. 20 shows a perspective view where five people are competing andmaking progress towards the finish line, which comprises a foam seal, inorder to win a stuffed seal prize. FIG. 21 shows side cross-sectionalview where one person is moving along the top of the floating objects.

FIGS. 22-23 illustrate an amusing and educational form of exercisingwhere customers will have to climb an inclined surface against aconstant water flow to see who reaches the finish line or other goalfirst and gets the prize at the top. Another purpose of this inventionis to provide for a healthy means of competition.

This invention comprises an inclined waterfall that presents two levelsof difficulty in climbing it, namely, its incline and its water flow.Furthermore this invention comprises a series of steps that after adetermined period of time even up on to a flat slippery incline, such asshown in FIG. 23, which together with the water flow will cause theperson climbing it to slide to the bottom pool after the preset timeexpires.

A variation of this invention comprises an even inclined surface thatwill use a significant increase of water flow after predetermined periodof time to bring the climber down to the pool once time has expired.Another variation of this invention is a single inclined waterfall forthe purpose of “one person at the time” attraction.

FIG. 22 shows a side cross-sectional view of climber starting thecompetition and props such as trees and bears to signify nature sincethe intention of this invention is to educate people on how hard salmonshave to work to survive and thus promote the less building of dams. FIG.23 shows side cross-sectional view where climbers fail to reach the topand win a stuffed baby salmon prize.

FIGS. 24-25 illustrates an amusing and educational form of exercisingwhere customers will have to climb an inclined surface against aconstant water flow to see who reaches the finish line first and getsthe prize at the top. Another purpose of this invention is to providefor a healthy means of competition. FIG. 24 shows a top view of climberscompeting. FIG. 25 shows a top view of climbers competing in a steeper(and thus more difficult) embodiment.

This invention comprises an inclined waterfall that presents two levelsof difficulty in climbing it, namely its incline and water flow.Furthermore this invention comprises a series of steps that after adetermined period of time even up on to a flat slippery incline whichtogether with the water flow will cause the person climbing it to slideto the bottom pool after the preset time expires.

A variation of this invention comprises an even inclined surface thatwill use a significant increase of water flow after predetermined periodof time to bring the climber down to the pool once time has expired.Another variation of this invention is a single inclined waterfall forthe purpose of “one person at the time” venue.

FIGS. 26-27 illustrate an amusing and educational form of exercising andmotivational venue to learn aquatic skills. Another purpose of thisinvention is to provide for a healthy means of competition. FIG. 26shows a cross-sectional view of pool area with the inclined steps. FIG.27 shows a top view of entire pool area.

This invention comprises a pool that has a series of “steps” that hasindented impressions on their surface where pearls (real or artificial)that are thrown onto the surface of the water will collect. Competitorswill then dive for a preset period of time to collect the pearls and winby collecting the most.

Furthermore this invention comprises a bottom of the pool channel thatwill collect all pearls that do not get retained by the impressions thatare sunk in the surface of the steps. This channel or compartment willhave a screen that will prevent divers from collecting pearls from them.Furthermore, the channel will recycle pearls for reuse by a mechanicalsystem that with suction or other means bring the pearls up for reuse. Avariation of this invention comprises an smaller pool for toddlers andwill contain treasure that will be safe for them.

FIGS. 28-29 illustrate an amusing and educational form of exercising andmotivational venue to learn aquatic skills. Another purpose of thisinvention is to provide for a healthy means of competition. FIG. 28shows a cross-sectional side view of pool area with the inclined floor.FIG. 29 shows a top view of entire pool area.

This invention comprises a pool that has several lanes and that has anartificial generated moving river that contains toy fish. At thebeginning end of the pool (other end) there are toy penguins (or anyother type of object) where competitors have to put an artificial fishinside their mouth to win. Competitors will have to wade and swim tocompete in this venue therefor it trains different muscles in the humanbody.

This invention also comprises a channel that mechanically brings theartificial fish back to the river for reuse. A variation of thisinvention comprises a single lane venue where “one at the time” clientscan compete for best time.

FIGS. 30-36 illustrate an amusing and interactive learning experiencegame that can be used at home and other places, but preferably inaquariums, zoological gardens, water parks, and schools. This inventioncomprises an interactive screen that allows people to play the game,chose the level of difficulty and learn about aquatic wildlife and othersubjects through interactive fun. This invention can be wall mounted,free standing or other form of display such as table top screen, wallimbedded etc. A variation of this invention comprises a non-touchoperated screen with the controls separate, such as the case of videogames.

The different levels of difficulty allow people of different ages to beable to play and enjoy the game. This game is designed to giveeducational information to the player through an enjoyable experience inthat the more they play the more they learn. This game can also beplayed through the Internet on a regular computer by the licensing ofthis invention. FIGS. 30-36 shows a front view of the screen withinteractive and touch activated controls including different variationsof the game.

FIG. 37 illustrates an amusing and interactive learning experience gamethat can be used at home and other places, but preferably in aquariums,zoological gardens, water parks, schools, carnivals fairs and the like.This invention comprises a step activated game that people can play andget a workout at the same time. It also comprises rails in whichmechanically mounted figures (penguins in our illustration) can advanceaccording to the intensity of the stepping action of the competitorsthat are playing.

A variation of this game will be a video game with a stepping plateaccessory/controller. This invention will provide for a healthyamusement for people of all ages. The motivating factor of this game forpeople to try hard and get a good work out is a prize. FIG. 37 shows afront view of the carnival/fair model of this game.

FIGS. 38-40 illustrate amusing and interactive learning experience gamesthat can be used at home and other places, but preferably in aquariums,zoological gardens, water parks, schools, carnivals fairs and the like.These inventions comprise an animal themed game of skill. A variation ofthese inventions will be a video game. These inventions will provide foramusement for people of all ages. The motivating factor of these gamesis a prize.

FIG. 41 illustrates a pool that contains one or more aquariums on itsside(s) for the purpose of allowing people to view the fish in theaquarium as well as the people swimming in the pool. This inventioncomprises a pool with one or more sides raised above the ground. Thesesides will contain transparent material such as acrylic or glass on adual parallel configuration for the purpose of housing an aquarium withlive fish within. A variation of this invention will be a pool of roundshape or other geometrical configurations. FIG. 41 show a perpendicularfront view of a pool with one side raised and the other three sidesflush with the ground.

FIGS. 42-43 illustrate a new and novel idea of making an imaginary videoat an aquarium or zoo. This invention comprises a “blue screen”, whichhas a support member on the front so a person can lie down and the madebelieve video can be produced. The person is then directed to act incertain ways according to the video that will be produce. As an example,the director directs the person to reach forwards as if is grabbingsomething and then on the special effects department they can put anoctopus in front or something else. Directed to act as if feels pain,then a shark is put in the video as if is biting the feet. A variationof this invention will be curved “blue screen” so a more complex videocan be produced. FIG. 42 shows a frontal view of the person posing infront of the “blue screen”. FIG. 43 shows an example of a finishedvideo.

FIGS. 44-45 illustrate a new and novel product (a “water stroller”) thatwill allow a person to move an infant on top of the water of a pool,lake or any other body of water and allow the infant to look downthrough a window. The water stroller will allow toddlers that not yetcan swim to enjoy what are below the water as if he had a swimming mask.

This water stroller comprises a floating device that allows the infantto lie down or sit down and be able to see below the water level througha conical device that has a sheet of transparent material at the bottom.The purpose of the conical device is to prevent water from reaching thetransparent bottom of the “conical” device. A variation of thisinvention will be a dual water stroller.

FIG. 44 shows a top view of the water stroller, which in this modelcomprises rigid floating members in a pontoon configuration and withnetting material for safety. FIG. 45 shows a side cross-sectional viewof the water stroller in use.

FIG. 46 illustrates a circular or other shape pool that allows people toengage on a snorkeling trip while for the purpose of amusement andexercising. Another purpose of this invention is to provide for aneducational/amusement venue by showing in different sections of thepool, different aquatic species of the different bodies of water aroundthe world represented in murals contained in the floor and bottom of thepool. FIG. 46 shows a top view of pool, showing the different regionsshowcased and the live aquarium or “window” lenses.

Another purpose of this invention is to provide live aquariums below thesurface of the floor for amusement and to motivate swimmers to developaquatic skills by diving to get close to the “aquarium lenses” to seethe live fish up-close. The six circular shapes staggered around thepool, represent the clear “lenses” that have the aquariums below them.

This invention comprises a swimming pool of any shape that will providethe educational and exercise benefits described above by the water flownot moving the people but making them work for it, the motivation isthey see a different panorama as they advance. A variation of thisinvention will be the same pool described above but with a water flow inone direction if there is a need or demand for it. Another variation ofthis invention is a pool that rises above ground by being in a secondfloor or other means and the circular lenses are windows to lookstraight down while swimming above.

FIG. 47 illustrates a circular or other shape pool that allows people toengage on a snorkeling trip while for the purpose of amusement andexercising. Another purpose of this invention is to provide for aneducational/amusement venue by showing in different sections of thepool, different aquatic species of the different bodies of water aroundthe world represented in murals contained in the floor and bottom of thepool. FIG. 47 shows a top view of pool, showing the different regionsshowcased on murals.

This invention comprises a swimming pool of any shape that will providethe to educational and exercise benefits described above by the waterflow not moving the people but making them work for it, the motivationis they see a different panorama as they advance. A variation of thisinvention will be the same pool described above but with a water flow inone direction if there is a need or demand for it.

FIG. 48-51 illustrate an amusing form of exercising where customers willride on the back of objects floating on the water (a dolphin is shownfor example purposes) configured to propel itself forward when thecustomer executes a back and forth motion. Another purpose of thisinvention is to provide for a venue that helps people develop balanceunder complete safety. Another purpose of this invention is to providefor a healthy means of competition.

This invention comprises a floating object that is attached by a hingeto a rolling cart and thus a pivoting action can occur, this rollingcart is connected at the bottom to a rail system. The rider may have ahandle bar and leverage footholds or pedals that will allow him toachieve a rocking movement with additional force.

When there is no rider or the rider is not motioning back and forth, thenatural floatability of the prop or floating object will keep it in ahorizontal plane to the water. The propulsion is caused by the rollingobject having a flexible tail type appendage about its hind quartersarea.

FIGS. 48-51 show a side cross-sectional view where four differentpositions that illustrates the mechanics of motion in relation topropulsion. The forward inclined downward movement of the front quarterscause the tail to bend downwards and then spring upwards and thusdisplacing water backwards which causes the floating object assembly tomove forwards. The exact opposite effect on the tail member is caused bythe upwardly inclined rocking movement of the front quarters whichpropels water backwards by the tail now moving on the opposite direction(upwards). This invention can be a single floating object or a pluralnumber of floating objects for the purpose of accommodating additionalpeople or competition.

FIG. 52 shows a top view of five competitors moving along the rails thatare affixed at the bottom of the pool. This illustration provides a topview of the invention of FIGS. 48-51. A variation of this invention is asingle lane, one at the time rider. Another variation of this inventionis a model that utilizes more than one rail in parallel displacement forthe purpose of achieving greater side-to-side stability. Anothervariation of this invention is achieving side-to-side motion with thetail member being vertically positioned. The side-to-side movement ofthe flexible tail causes the backward displacement of water and thus theforward displacement of the floating object.

FIGS. 53-55 show a variation of the invention of FIGS. 48-52 where thefloating object (a dolphin for this illustration) has lateral pontoonsand a motor and a propeller, therefore does not need rails and can goonto open water.

FIG. 56 shows a variation of the invention of FIGS. 48-55 where thefloating object (a dolphin for this illustration) is a toy, has lateralpontoons and a motor and it is remote controlled. FIG. 56 shows a toywith figurine. The tail is the element of propulsion. The tail may bepowered by the motor that moves it up and down thus propelling waterbackwards and thus moving or propelling the toy forwards. FIG. 57 showssame invention of FIG. 56 but without a figurine on top that may beremote controlled such as via a controller as shown in FIG. 58.

FIG. 59 shows a variation of the invention of pages 48-58 where thefloating object (a dolphin for this illustration) can be ride by ahuman, has lateral pontoons for stability and a motor. The tail is theelement of propulsion. The tail may be powered by the motor that movesit up and down thus propelling water backwards and thus moving orpropelling the toy forwards. FIG. 60 shows a top view of FIG. 59 of thispage and a top view which shows the motor at the back quarters offloating object.

FIG. 61 shows a pool with an underwater aquarium for the purpose ofkeeping human and fish separated so no mixing of the water occurs. Thetransparent wall having water on both sides seem to disappear creatingthe illusion of swimming with the fish. FIG. 62 shows a top view of FIG.61.

While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it willbe apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many moreembodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scopeof this invention. In addition, the various features, elements, andembodiments described herein may be claimed or combined in anycombination or arrangement.

What is claimed is:
 1. An aquatic wildlife discovery pool comprising: aplurality of transparent walls; a floor having one or more openportions, wherein the plurality of transparent walls and floor areconfigured to hold pool water for one or more swimmers to swim therein;and a plurality of aquariums containing water and one or more types ofaquatic wildlife; wherein the plurality of aquariums are visible throughthe plurality of transparent walls and the one or more open portions. 2.The aquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 1, wherein the plurality oftransparent walls are made from the plurality of aquariums.
 3. Theaquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 1, wherein an aquarium of theplurality of aquariums is at each of the one or more open portions. 4.The aquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 1 further comprising amagnifying lens or window at the one or more open portions.
 5. Theaquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 1, wherein a first type ofaquatic wildlife is at the floor and a second distinct type of aquaticwildlife is at the walls of the aquatic wildlife discovery pool, eachtype of aquatic wildlife contained within one of the plurality ofaquariums.
 6. The aquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 1, whereinthe aquatic wildlife discovery pool has a shallow end and a deep end. 7.The aquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 6, wherein a first type ofaquatic wildlife is at the shallow end and a second distinct type ofaquatic wildlife is at the deep end of the aquatic wildlife discoverypool, each type of aquatic wildlife contained within one of theplurality of aquariums.
 8. A pool-based aquatic attraction comprising: aswimming pool having at least one transparent wall formed by at leastone first aquarium, and a floor, wherein pool water is contained withinthe swimming pool and aquarium water is contained within the firstaquarium; one or more second aquariums at the floor of the swimmingpool, the one or more second aquariums also containing aquarium water;and one or more openings in the floor of the swimming pool configured topermit viewing of the one or more second aquariums though the floor;wherein the pool water is configured to allow swimmers to swim thereinand the aquarium water has aquatic wildlife therein.
 9. The aquaticwildlife discovery pool of claim 8, wherein the aquarium water is saltwater and the pool water is not.
 10. The aquatic wildlife discovery poolof claim 8 further comprising a first water filtration and circulationmechanism attached to the one or more first and second aquariums, and asecond water filtration and circulation mechanism attached to theswimming pool.
 11. The aquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 8further comprising one or more magnifying lenses at the one or moreopenings.
 12. The aquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 8 furthercomprising one or more windows at the one or more openings.
 13. Theaquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 8, wherein the at least onefirst aquarium contains a first type of aquatic wildlife, and the one ormore second aquariums contain a second distinct type of aquaticwildlife.
 14. The aquatic wildlife discovery pool of claim 13, whereinthe first type of aquatic wildlife swims but the second type of aquaticwildlife does not.
 15. A method for discovering aquatic wildlifecomprising: providing a swimming pool comprising at least onetransparent wall, wherein a first aquarium is at the at least onetransparent wall; providing a floor to the swimming pool having one ormore openings therein; installing one or more second aquariums at theone or more openings of the floor, wherein the one or more secondaquariums are visible at the one or more openings; adding aquaticwildlife to the first aquarium and the one or more second aquariums;filling the swimming pool with pool water to allow swimming therein suchthat one or more swimmers may dive to the floor of the swimming pool toview the aquatic wildlife within the one or more second aquariums;wherein the aquatic wildlife at the one or more second aquariums isobscured by the pool water from the deck of the swimming pool.
 16. Themethod of claim 15, wherein a first type of aquatic wildlife is at thefirst aquarium and a second distinct type of aquatic wildlife is at theone or more second aquariums.
 17. The method of claim 15 furthercomprising installing one or more magnifying lenses at the one or moreopenings.
 18. The method of claim 15 further comprising connecting afirst filtration system to the swimming pool and connecting a secondfiltration system to the first and second aquariums.
 19. The method ofclaim 15 further comprising forming a shallow end and a deep end for theswimming pool.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein a first type ofaquatic wildlife is added to the one or more second aquariums at theshallow end, and a second type of aquatic wildlife is added to the oneor more second aquariums at the deep end.